16 Board Games That Were Pulled Off Shelves for Safety Reasons
Several board games have been removed from stores over the years because they posed safety risks to players.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
Some board games were taken off shelves due to hazards like toxic materials, choking risks, or harmful design flaws. These safety concerns affected both children and adults, prompting recalls or bans. The removal of these games highlights the importance of safety standards in toys and entertainment products.
1. Monopoly (Early Versions)
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Early versions of Monopoly used metal tokens that contained lead, which posed a poisoning risk, especially to children. These tokens were later replaced with safer materials after concerns about lead exposure grew. The game was temporarily pulled from some stores until safer pieces were made. This change helped make the game safer for all ages.
2. Ouija Board
Pavel Danilyuk on Wikimedia Commons
The Ouija board was sometimes removed from shelves due to fears it could cause psychological distress or be linked to unsafe spiritual practices. Though not physically dangerous, concerns over mental health risks led some stores to stop selling it. These decisions were often influenced by public opinion and safety worries. The game remains controversial in some communities.
3. Cootie (Original Plastic Parts)
ItsLassieTime on Wikimedia Commons
The original plastic parts of the Cootie game contained small pieces that were a choking hazard for young children. Due to several incidents, the game was recalled and redesigned with larger, safer pieces. Manufacturers pulled it temporarily to update the materials and shapes. This ensured it was safe for its target age group.
4. Hungry Hungry Hippos (Early Versions)
Dave Fischer on Wikimedia Commons
Early Hungry Hungry Hippos sets included small marbles that could come loose and become choking hazards. After reports of children swallowing pieces, the game was taken off the shelves for redesign. The marbles were replaced with fixed plastic balls to prevent accidents. These updates made the game safer while keeping the fun intact.
5. G.I. Joe Action Figures and Playsets
Hasbro on Wikimedia Commons
Some G.I. Joe playsets were removed because they contained small, detachable parts that could easily be swallowed or cause injury. Safety regulations changed in the 1980s, leading manufacturers to redesign these toys. Certain playsets were temporarily banned or recalled during this period. New versions followed stricter safety standards.
6. Magic: The Gathering (Prohibited Cards)
Kyle Gese on Wikimedia Commons
Certain Magic: The Gathering cards were pulled due to containing artwork or content that was considered inappropriate or risky for younger players. While the game itself was safe physically, content concerns led to bans in some stores. This showed how safety can also include protecting mental and emotional well-being. The game’s publisher later adjusted the card designs and rules.
7. Risk (Small Dice)
Document02 on Wikimedia Commons
Early editions of Risk included small dice that posed choking hazards for young children. Some versions were recalled or modified to include larger dice after safety complaints. These changes helped prevent accidental swallowing and injuries. The game remains popular today with safer components.
8. Twister (Old Plastic Mats)
Jerry Daykin on Wikimedia Commons
Original Twister mats were made from thin plastic that could tear easily, causing sharp edges or choking hazards from broken pieces. Some older versions were pulled from shelves due to these safety issues. The mats were later made thicker and more durable to avoid risks. This update allowed the game to continue being a fun and safe activity.
9. Dungeons & Dragons (Early Editions)
Nicole Hill on Wikimedia Commons
Early Dungeons & Dragons sets were criticized and sometimes pulled for allegedly encouraging risky or unsafe behavior. Though not physically dangerous, fears about its influence on mental health led to temporary bans in some areas. These concerns were mostly cultural, but they affected the game’s availability. The game later became more widely accepted and safer for players.
10. Mouse Trap (Metal Parts)
Al Smith on Wikimedia Commons
The original Mouse Trap game included metal pieces that could cause cuts or pinching injuries. Complaints about safety led to redesigns with plastic parts replacing the metal. The game was temporarily withdrawn while manufacturers made these changes. The updated version was safer and easier for children to play.
11. Candy Land (Paint and Materials)
Bart Everson on Wikimedia Commons
Early versions of Candy Land used paint that contained harmful chemicals, leading to health concerns. The game was pulled and repainted with non-toxic colors to meet safety standards. This ensured children could enjoy the game without exposure to dangerous substances. Today, all parts comply with strict safety rules.
12. Jumanji Board Game (Trap Components)
Thomas Bresson on Wikimedia Commons
Some editions of the Jumanji board game included trap components that could snap or pinch players’ fingers. Due to injury reports, the game was redesigned to reduce risks. Certain dangerous parts were removed or softened to prevent harm. This made the game safer while keeping the adventurous theme.
13. Operation (Sharp Tweezers)
Jacek Halicki on Wikimedia Commons
The Operation game uses metal tweezers that, if mishandled, could cause small cuts or pinching injuries. There were reports of minor injuries leading to some recalls and redesign efforts. The tweezers were modified to be safer and more comfortable to use. The game continues to be popular with improved safety features.
14. Mouse Trap (Spring Mechanism)
ShakataGaNai on Wikimedia Commons
The spring mechanism in early Mouse Trap versions sometimes caused parts to fly off unexpectedly. This posed a risk of hitting players or causing injury. As a result, the game was recalled and the mechanism was redesigned for safer play. The new design prevented accidents and improved user experience.
15. Connect Four (Small Checkers)
Mike Mozart on Wikimedia Commons
The small plastic checkers used in early Connect Four were a choking hazard for toddlers. The game was temporarily pulled and later produced with larger, safer pieces. This helped prevent accidents in households with young children. The game remains a family favorite with safer components.
16. Trouble (Pop-O-Matic Dice)
Mliu92 on Wikimedia Commons
Trouble’s pop-o-matic dice contained small parts that could break and create choking hazards. Some versions were recalled after safety reviews. The design was improved to make the dice more durable and secure. This ensured players could enjoy the game safely.